Peripheral Vision Head-Mounted Display for Imparting Information to a User Without Distraction and Associated Methods

ABSTRACT

A head-mounted peripheral vision display and associated methods display information to a user without distraction. A plurality of light display elements are positioned within an area of peripheral vision of at least one eye of the user such that the information is imparted to the user without a need for repositioning or refocusing of the eye. The information may be determined from data received from one or more sensors and an illumination pattern is determined based upon the performance information. The light display elements are controlled to display the illumination pattern to the user.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/848,650 filed Mar. 21, 2013, which is a continuation of InternationalApplication No. PCT/US2011/052641 filed Sep. 21, 2011, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/385,057filed Sep. 21, 2010. Both of the aforementioned applications areincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure is directed to a headset that presentsinformation through visual and audible means with minimal impact on userfocus and attention toward user activity.

BACKGROUND

Fitness and activity monitors typically take the form of a small displaydevice that is worn as a wristwatch or, in the case of a bicyclecomputer, motorbike, or snowmobile speedometer, mounted to thehandlebars of the vehicle. Performance metrics such as heart rate,speed, distance, location, cadence, power, among others, are measured byone or more sensors connected to the display device either electricallyor through a wireless communication link. The display device typicallyreceives, processes, and displays the performance information to theuser.

Such activity monitors and feedback mechanisms may present severalissues to the user. First, since the display device must be lightweightand portable, the display size is typically small and difficult to readwhile in motion, a situation that is worsened in low light conditions.In certain sports, such as swimming, it is not feasible for the user toread a display without significantly interfering with the activity.Second, the user must frequently take focus off of his activity to readdisplayed information, which can be distracting or dangerous to theactivity at hand. Competitive athletes can find such a lack of focusdetrimental to optimal performance and safety. Certain activities suchas cycling, motorcycling, and snowmobiling require constant attention tothe road, trail, and surrounding environment; looking elsewhere can leadto injury. Third, the reading and operation of a wrist-worn orhandlebar-mounted display can interfere with efficient body motionsrequired for optimal performance. Frequent viewing of a wristwatch, oroperation of the wristwatch by the opposite hand, for example, caninterfere with the efficient arm and corresponding stride motion duringrunning activity. As another example, the viewing or operation of abicycle computer can cause the cyclist to exit from a streamlinedaerodynamic position, which is detrimental to his resultant performance.

Heads-Up displays, as well known in the art, present a focused image(e.g., alphanumeric characters and/or graphics) to a wearer of thedisplay. The focused image is projected into at least part of thewearer's normal operational field of view, such that the user typicallysees the focused image overlaid onto that normal field of view. Whileallowing the user to assimilate the information from the focuseddisplay, this information is also distracting since this focused imagepartially covers the wearer's operational field of view, that part ofthe wearer's normal field of view is obscured.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a head-mounted display displays information to a userwithout distraction. At least one light display element is positionedwithin a peripheral vision area of at least one eye of the user suchthat the information is imparted to the user without the need ofrepositioning or refocusing the eye. A receiver receives the informationand a microcontroller, coupled with the receiver and the at least onelight display element, processes the information to determine anillumination pattern based upon the information and controls the atleast one light display element to display the illumination pattern.

In another embodiment, a method displays information to a user withoutdistraction. The information is received within a microcontroller of aperipheral vision display system. An illumination pattern for at leastone light display element is determined, based upon the information,within the microcontroller and the at least one light display element iscontrolled to display the illumination pattern. The at least one lightdisplay element is positioned within an area of peripheral vision of atleast one eye of the user such that the information may be imparted tothe user without the need to reposition or refocus the eye.

In another embodiment, a headset displays information within aperipheral vision area of a user. The headset includes a receiver forreceiving a signal from a signaling device, at least one light displayelement positioned within a peripheral vision area of at least one eyeof the user such that the information is imparted to the user withoutthe need of repositioning or refocusing the eye, and a microcontrollercoupled with the receiver and the light display element for determiningan illumination pattern based upon the signal and for controlling thelight display elements to display the illumination pattern.

In another embodiment, a system displays audio information within aperipheral vision area of a user. The system includes at least onemicrophone for detecting sound, at least one light display elementpositioned within a peripheral vision area of at least one eye of theuser such that the information is imparted to the user without the needof repositioning or refocusing the eye, and a microcontroller coupledwith the at least one microphone and the at least one light displayelement. The system includes machine readable instructions that, whenexecuted by the microcontroller, perform the steps of: processing thedetected sound to generate the audio information, generating anillumination pattern based upon the detected sound, and controlling theat least one light display element to display the illumination pattern.

In another embodiment, headwear displays information within a peripheralvision area of a user. A receiver is integrated with the headwear andreceives the information. At least one light display element isintegrated with the headwear and positioned within a peripheral visionarea of at least one eye of the user. A microcontroller is integratedwith the headwear and coupled with the receiver and the light displayelement. The microcontroller determines an illumination pattern basedupon the signal and controls the light display elements to display theillumination pattern. The information is imparted to the user withoutthe need of repositioning or refocusing the eye.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of one exemplary head-mounted system fordisplaying performance information, in an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of the systemof FIG. 1, showing a boom for positioning a peripheral vision devicewithin a peripheral vision area of the user's eye.

FIG. 3 shows part of the peripheral vision device of FIG. 1 in furtherdetail.

FIG. 4 shows exemplary use of the peripheral vision device of FIG. 3formed with seven light display elements, in an embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows exemplary use of a peripheral vision device formed with twolinear rows each of seven light display elements, in an embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows the system of FIG. 2 attached to one arm of a pair ofsunglasses, in an embodiment.

FIG. 7 schematically shows one exemplary head-mounted peripheral visiondisplay system for displaying performance information generated by aremote intermediary processor, in an embodiment.

FIG. 8 schematically shows one exemplary head mounted system fordisplaying signal information within a peripheral vision area of a user,in an embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary perspective view showing the system of FIG. 8configured as a frame of a pair of glasses, in an embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of thesystems of FIGS. 1, 7 and 12, configured as a headset body that has anear clip, an ear piece, and a microphone.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of thesystems of FIGS. 1, 7 and 12, configured as a headset body that has aclip, an ear piece, and a microphone.

FIG. 12 shows one exemplary head-mounted cellular phone that includes amicrocontroller, a peripheral vision device, and a cellular transceiver,in an embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows one exemplary head mounted system for displaying soundindications within a peripheral vision area of a user of system, in anembodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the system of FIG. 13 configuredas a frame of a pair of glasses, in an embodiment.

FIGS. 15A-C show perspective views of exemplary embodiments of thesystems of FIGS. 1, 7, 8 and 12 configured as a clip-on addition to anear piece of a user's existing glasses and sunglasses.

FIGS. 16A and B show one exemplary head-mounted peripheral visiondisplay system configured as a baseball cap, in an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method for displayinginformation to a user without distraction, in an embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method for determiningan illumination pattern for one metric, in an embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method for determiningan illumination pattern for an activity metric where activity in atarget zone is indicated by no illuminated elements of the peripheraldisplay.

FIG. 20 shows exemplary communication between two head-mountedperformance display systems, and between a coach station 2002 and eachof the two head-mounted performance display systems, in an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 schematically shows one exemplary head-mounted performancedisplay system 100 for displaying performance information within aperipheral vision area of a user. System 100 includes a microcontroller102, a peripheral vision device 104, and a wireless receiver/transceiver106. Microcontroller 102 may include memory (non-volatile and volatile),one or more analog to digital converters, one or more digital to analogconverters, and other functionality, as typically found inmicrocontroller devices. Microcontroller 102 is shown with software 103,for example stored within a memory of microcontroller 102, whichcontains machine readable instructions that, when executed bymicrocontroller 102, performs functionality of system 100 as describebelow. Software 103 may be permanently stored within memory ofmicrocontroller 102, or may be read into registers or temporary memory,that is, software 103 may be field programmable. In embodiments wheresoftware 103 is field programmable, it may be loaded into the registersor temporary memory in situations such as start up of system 100, tostream instant notifications, to provide updated content such asmessages, comments, audible or display cues, or to change individual orgroup settings of software 103.

Peripheral vision device 104 is controlled by microcontroller 102 andpositioned within a peripheral vision area of a user of system 100 suchthat the user may absorb displayed information without repositioningand/or refocusing his or her vision. System 100 receives informationfrom one or more sensors 170 a-c (external to system 100) via wirelessreceiver/transceiver 106. When configured as a transceiver, wirelessreceiver/transceiver 106 provides bi-directional communication. In oneembodiment, wireless receiver/transceiver 106 is part of an ANTcommunication system, as provided by Nordic Semiconductor. In anotherembodiment, wireless receiver/transceiver 106 supports Bluetoothcommunication.

System 100 has a user interface 150 for receiving input from the user.User interface 150 may include one or more of: an actuator 152, motionsensors 154, proximity sensors 156, capacitive sensors 157 andmicrophones 158. Actuator 152 represents an input device (e.g., one ormore of a push button switch, a slider switch, and a sliderpotentiometer) that allows the user to interact with microcontroller102. In one embodiment, actuator 152 is used to activate and deactivatesystem 100. Motion sensors 154 may include one or more accelerometersand/or gyroscopes for detecting movement of system 100. Proximity sensor156 detects proximity changes of system 100 relative to other objects(e.g., the user's hand). Capacitive sensor 157 detects changes incapacitance, such as touch of the user's finger and motion of thatfinger along a surface proximate to capacitive sensor 157. Other typesof sensor may be used in place of capacitive sensor 157 for detectingtouch gestures of the user without departing from the scope hereof. Userinterface 150 allows system 100 to recognize user gestures, such as:button pushes (long and/or short duration); taps—single, double, ortriple taps by the user on system 100; and movements such as head tilts,and head nods and/or head shakes, and touch gestures such as fingermotion along a surface of system 100. Microcontroller 102 may interpretinput from single and multiple sensors (e.g., button pushes, taps, andtouches) from the user as sensed by user interface 150. Other methods ofreceiving user input may be used without departing from the scopehereof. For example, system 100 may include a sensor for tracking eyemovement and/or detecting blinking of an eye, thereby allowing the userto create inputs through blinking and eye movements.

System 100 may also include one or more internal sensors 110 that couplewith microcontroller 102 to sense user performance. Internal sensors 110may include one or more of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a pressuresensor, a power sensor, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, and aproximity sensor. Optionally, sensors of user interface 150 (e.g.,sensors 154, 156) and sensors 110 may provide both user inputinformation and performance information. For example, informationreceived from an accelerometer within sensors 110 may also beinterpreted by microcontroller 102 as user input information.

In one embodiment, system 100 also includes an audio output device 120coupled with microcontroller 102 for generating audio information (e.g.,tones and voice information readout) to a user of system 100.Optionally, system 100 has an external audio output device 120′ inaddition to, or to replace, audio output device 120. System 100 may alsooptionally include a vibration device 122 that, when activated bymicrocontroller 102, provides tactile feedback to the user of system100. In one embodiment, audio output device 120 and vibration device 122are combined into a single component of system 100.

In one embodiment, system 100 also includes an interface 130 coupledwith microcontroller 102 that enables communication between system 100and an external device such as a personal computer (PC) 172. In thisdocument, “PC” may refer to any one or more of a desktop computer, alaptop or netbook computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, a personaldigital assistant (PDA), a navigation system (e.g., a GPS enabled routemapping system) and/or other similar electronic devices havingcapability for communicating (wired and/or wirelessly) with system 100.In one example of operation, a PC 172 connects to interface 130 and isused to set configuration 160 of system 100 via a USB interface ofinterface 130. Configuration 160 may for example define performancezones and thresholds of one or more metrics displayed by system 100,load celebrity voices, custom display patterns, other audio and visualcues and/or combinations thereof, for output by system 100. Interface130 may also be combined with wireless receiver/transceiver 106 suchthat system 100 may communicate with the PC wirelessly. For example, ina field programmable embodiment of system 100, interface 130 enables thePC to provide software 103 upon startup of system 100, to provideupdates to software 103, or to provide updated content such asnotifications, messages, comments, or audible or display cues. Inanother embodiment, interface 130 represents a transceiver forwirelessly communicating with the PC.

In one embodiment, system 100 includes a removable storage device 132(e.g., a microSD card) that is coupled to microcontroller 102 such thatsensed data and/or configuration 160 of system 100 may be storedthereon. Removable storage device 132 is for example mounted within asocket such that it may be removed and access in other computer systems(e.g., a PC). In one example, information recorded from sensors 110,154, 156, 170 a-c and/or microphone 158 may be further processed and/orviewed on the other computer. In another example, configuration 160 ifsystem 100 is prepared within the other computer and stored onto storagedevice 132 and then installed within system 100, wherein storage device132 provides configuration 160 that defines zones and other parametersof metrics and displayed data of system 100.

Microcontroller 102 may receive sensed information from one or moreexternal sensors 170 a-c via wireless receiver/transceiver 106. FIG. 1illustratively shows three external sensors 170 a-c wirelessly coupledwith system 100. However, more or fewer external sensors 170 a-c may beused without departing from the scope hereof. For example, no externalsensors 170 a-c may be used when internal sensors 110 provide sufficientinformation for display of performance data. External sensors 170 a-cmay represent one or more of: a heart rate monitor; a runningspeed/distance/cadence sensor; a bike speed/distance/cadence/powersensor; a bike computer; an exercise equipment computer (e.g.treadmill); a (Digital) pressure sensor (for height information); a GNSSreceiver (e.g., GPS); a temperature sensor; a light sensor; and aproximity sensor.

System 100 provides the user with performance feedback and/or audibleinformation such as, for example: current, average, max or minspeed/pace; current, average, max or min heart rate; distance travelled;total energy expended; % through workout; duration; clock time; workoutzone transition (or zone number cue); workout zone information (such as“hill climb,” “steps,” “hot terrain,” “windy” and the like); heart ratezone; timer; lap time; current, average, min or max power; and current,average, min or max cadence. System 100 may, in embodiments, storeperformance information of a user and determine and feed back to theuser when personal milestones are reached or a personal best performanceis achieved.

In one example of operation, microcontroller 102 receives sensor datafrom sensors 170 a-c (if included) via wireless receiver/transceiver106, from sensors 110 (if included), and from sensors 154 and 156 (ifincluded) of user interface 150. Software 103 is executed withinmicrocontroller 102 to process this sensor data and to controlperipheral vision device 104 to display performance data to the user.Where included, audio output device 120 is controlled by microcontroller102 (e.g., by executing software 103 to control a digital to analogconverter) to provide audible information and feedback to the user.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of system 100,FIG. 1, configured with a boom 202 for positioning peripheral visiondevice 104 within a peripheral vision area of the user's eye and ahousing 204 that contains electronics 101 (e.g., microcontroller 102,wireless receiver/transceiver 106, internal sensors 110, audio outputdevice 120, user interface 150, and interface 130, if included). FIG. 3shows peripheral vision device 104 of FIG. 2 in further detail. FIGS. 2and 3 are best viewed together with the following description.

Boom 202 is a thin flexible substrate attached to, or integral with,housing 204, such that peripheral vision device 104 may be positionedwithin a peripheral vision area of the user (as indicated by viewingdirection 208). The substrate may be encased within a housing materialfor environmental protection or stiffening purposes. Boom 202 mayinclude a position memory material (e.g., a wire, engineering polymer,shape memory alloy, or other material that maintains its shape afterbending) such that once positioned by the user, boom 202 remainssubstantially in that position during activity by the user, unless movedagain by the user. The memory material may also provide torsion memoryto boom 202, and may be selectively utilized to provide shape memory inone or more directions (e.g., one-, two- or three-dimensional shapememory). In another embodiment, boom 202 is substantially rigid andshaped to fit a particular application and/or supporting apparatus(e.g., a user's eyewear).

In one embodiment, housing 204 is integral with the supporting headgearor eyewear (see FIGS. 9 and 14 for example). System 100 is also shownwith an attachment mechanism 206, coupled with housing 204, forattaching system 100 to a supporting frame, such as a user's eyewear orheadwear. In one embodiment, attachment mechanism 206 of system 100 isshaped and configured to mount to a user's ear. In another embodiment,attachment mechanism 206 is shaped and configured to mount to a user'snose. In yet another embodiment, attachment mechanism 206 is shaped andconfigured to mount to a user's head. System 100 may be configured toattach to objects worn by the user, and may be configured to attachdirectly to the user. Boom 202 has seven light display elements 304(1)-(7) formed into a linear array or matrix array at a distal end 302thereof. Light emitted by light display elements 304 is directed towardsthe user's eye (or eyes) to maximize visibility and reduce requiredintensity (and thereby reduce power consumption). Light display element304 may represent a light emitting diode (LED) or other light sources.Although seven light display elements 304 are shown within peripheralvision device 104, more or fewer light display elements 304 may beincluded without departing from the scope hereof.

When attached to existing eyewear, boom 202 may be configured such thatperipheral vision device 104 is positioned outside the lens, within thelens, inside the frames of the eyewear, outside the frames, and at anyperipheral position around the eye. In one embodiment, boom 202 containsoptical fibers, and light display elements 304 are located withinhousing 204 and coupled to the optical fibers such that light is emittedfrom the distal end 302 of boom 202, for example in a linear arraysimilar to FIG. 3 or in a two dimensional matrix array. Light displayelements 304 may be mounted flush with, or just behind a window in, asurface 306 of boom 202.

Boom 202 and housing 204 may attach to existing eyewear for exampleusing adhesive to couple housing 204 to an arm of the eyewear, or attachusing adhesive along boom 202. Boom 202 and/or housing 204 may includeone or more suction cups for attaching system 100 to existing eyewearand headwear. In one embodiment, boom 202 and/or housing 204 has anattachment feature fabricated from, or overmolded or sprayed with, a“grippy” (that is, slightly sticky or tacky) material that increases thecoefficient of friction between boom 202 and a user's glasses forexample to prevent undesired movement of boom 202 relative to theglasses. In another embodiment, boom 202 and housing 204 include an earclip for attaching system 100 to a user's ear such that peripheralvision device 104 may be positioned in a peripheral vision areas of theuser's eye without any need for eyewear or headwear.

A plurality of capacitive sensors 157 are illustratively shownconfigured with boom 202 such that motion of a user's finger along path212 is detected and interpreted by microcontroller 102. More or fewercapacitive sensors 157 may be integrated with one or both of boom 202and housing 204 without departing from the scope hereof.

In one embodiment, light display elements 304 mount to, or are integralwith, a user's eyewear, such as sunglasses, ski or snowboard goggles,swim goggles, and eyeglasses. In another embodiment, light displayelements 304 mount to, or are integral with, a user's headgear, such asa bicycle helmet, a motorbike helmet, a visor, a hat, a cap, a hearingaid, and a headband.

In one embodiment, system 100 has two booms (each similar to boom 202)such that light display elements 304 of peripheral vision device 104 maybe positioned in peripheral vision areas both above and below the user'seye. In yet another embodiment, light display elements 304 are formedinto a partial or full circle such that light display elements areradially positioned around the user's eye. This may be especiallyconvenient where the light display elements are integrated with theframe of one or both eyewear lenses (see FIGS. 9 and 14), whichnaturally surrounds the eye. In another embodiment, light displayelements 304 are integrated with eyewear such that they have a verticalorientation either side of the user's eye when the eyewear is worn bythe user.

In another embodiment, light display elements 304 are mounted in closeproximity and visible to both eyes of the user. This may be accomplishedwith a single piece of display substrate (e.g., clear engineeringplastic in the form of a lens), either integrated with (e.g., etchedinto glass), or externally attached to, the user's existing eyewear orheadgear. Alternatively, if appropriate, two separate substrates may beused. In one embodiment, light display elements 304 project light ontoat least part of the substrate to make it become visible to the user,for example utilizing polarized light from the one or more light displayelements 304.

In FIG. 3, light display elements 304 are formed into a linear array.However, the light display elements 304 may also be formed into twodimensional arrays. For example, light display elements 304 may beformed as two or more rows, wherein each row displays information of adifferent activity metric. See FIG. 5 for example. Alternatively, theinformation of a single activity metric may be displayed using the twoor more rows. Light display elements 304 may also be configured toprovide a 3D (three dimensional) display of information. For example,peripheral vision device 104 may project light that is receiveddifferently by each of the user's eyes to form a 3D image (e.g., animage with perceived depth to the user). In one embodiment, lightdisplay elements 304 are structured as a 3D array having various heightsin regions around the peripheral vision area of the user (e.g., on boom202).

Light display elements 304 may each emit light at a fixed wavelength(e.g., a fixed color). For example, color of light emitted by each lightdisplay element 304 may be selected based upon position of the lightdisplay element within the one or two dimensional array. Alternatively,light display elements 304 may each emit a different color under controlof microcontroller 102.

FIG. 2 shows exemplary positioning of light sensors 110(1) for detectingambient light conditions experienced by the user, such thatmicrocontroller 102 may control intensity of light display elements 304automatically based upon determined ambient light conditions. Lightsensors 110(1) represent at least part of sensors 110 of FIG. 1. Lightsensors 110(1) are shown in exemplary positions at a tip of boom 202 andat a base of boom 202 of FIG. 2. System 100 may include zero, one ormore light sensors 110(1) at the same or other positions withoutdeparting from the scope hereof.

In one embodiment, microcontroller 102 interprets the user pressingactuator 152 as an instruction to reduce intensity of light displayelements 304. In an embodiment, light display elements 304 do notinclude lenses, or other optical components; however, one or more lensesmay be included to enhance the viewing angle of each light displayelement. Where light display elements 304 are included in existingeyewear, optical components may be included to correct the effects oflenses within the existing eyewear.

In one embodiment, light display elements 304 are each monocolor LEDsarranged in a linear fashion and embedded within boom 202. In anotherembodiment, light display elements 304 are each bicolor or tricolor LEDsarranged in a linear fashion and embedded within a soft resin of boom202. FIGS. 2 and 3 may also represent embodiments of systems 700, 800and 1200, described herein.

FIG. 4 shows exemplary use of peripheral vision device 104 formed withseven light display elements 304(1)-(7) of FIG. 3 as configured withinsystem 100 of FIG. 1 to display performance of one or more activities bythe user. Microcontroller 102 may utilize one or more of modulation ofdisplay element position, intensity, color, flashing rate, flashing dutycycle, fading, multiple element combinations and patterns to generate anillumination pattern 408 for light display elements 304 based upondetermined performance information. In one example of operation, system100 displays each measured metric of a particular activity within apre-defined performance range. For example, for that particularactivity, a heart rate metric may range between 80 beats per minute and190 beats per minute, wherein an optimal (goal) rate may be 160 beatsper minute. In another example, the user may define a target pace of aseven minute mile while running, with a minimum pace of a 9 minute mileand a maximum pace of a 4 minute mile. System 100 may provide feedbackto the user for both heart rate and pace. When system 100 provides suchgoal oriented guidance, once the goal is established, the feedback fromsystem 100 allows the user to be aware of progress towards the goalwithout requiring the user to lose focus by concentrating on specificmetrics or values.

Using user interface 150, the user may select a particular metric fordisplay, wherein microcontroller 102 subdivides minima and maxima of themetric into one or more sequential zones 402, illustrated as arrowswithin FIG. 4. For example, where the metric is speed, the desired rangeis between a minimum and a maximum speed; for a heart rate metric, thedesired range is between low and high heart rate thresholds. One or morelight display elements 304 are assigned to each zone 402, as shown.Specifically, light display element 304(1) is assigned to zone 402(1),light display element 304(2) is assigned to zone 402(2), light displayelement 304(3) is assigned to zone 402(3), light display element 304(4)is assigned to zone 402(4), light display element 304(5) is assigned tozone 402(5), light display element 304(6) is assigned to zone 402(6),and light display element 304(7) is assigned to zone 402(7). When theuser's determined activity level falls within one of these zones,microcontroller 102 generates illumination pattern 408 such thatcorresponding display element(s) is differentiated from the remainingdisplay elements by modulating one or more visual characteristics, suchas intensity, duty cycle, flashing rate, and color.

In the example of FIG. 4, all light display elements 304 are utilizedfor displaying one activity metric 406. However, light display elements304 may be divided into smaller virtual arrays for displaying more thanone activity metric simultaneously. For example, light display elements304(1)-(3) may display a first activity metric, light display element304(4) may display a second activity metric, and light display elements304(5)-(7) may display a third activity metric. In another embodiment,peripheral vision device 104 automatically cycles between displayedmetrics. In another embodiment, peripheral vision device 104 displaysthe metric indicating greatest variance from a preconfigured goal forthat metric.

FIG. 5 shows exemplary use of a peripheral vision device 104′ having twolinear rows of seven light display elements 504 each. In this example,the top row of elements 504(1)-(7) displays a first activity metric506(1) and the second row of elements 504(8)-(14) displays a secondactivity metric 506(2). The first activity metric 506(1) is divided intoseven zones 502(1)-(7), and the second activity metric 506(2) is dividedinto seven zones 502(8)-(14). In this example of peripheral visiondevice 104′, light display element 504(5) indicated that a user isperforming within zone 502(5) for first activity metric 506(1) and lightdisplay element 504(10) indicated that the user is performing in zone502(10) for second activity metric 506(2). If, in this example, firstactivity metric 506(1) displays heart rate performance, and secondactivity metric 506(2) displays pace, and both zones 502(4) and 502(11)represent target zones for each activity, respectively, microcontroller102 generates an illumination pattern 508 for display on peripheralvision device 104′ such that the user may simultaneously see that his orher heart rate is higher, and his or her pace is lower, than theirrespective target zones. Peripheral vision device 104′ may concurrentlydisplay more than two metrics. For example, the linear array formed ofdisplay elements 504(1)-(7) may be sub-divided to show two differentmetrics. Alternatively, different colors may be used within the lineararray formed of display elements 504(1)-(7), where each color displays adifferent metric.

FIG. 6 shows system 100 attached to one arm 604 of a pair of sunglasses602 using attachment mechanism 206 (e.g., a clip) such that boom 202positions peripheral vision device 104 within a peripheral field ofvision of a user wearing sunglasses 602. Although shown positionedoutside of the lens of sunglasses 602, the flexibility and positionmemory of boom 202 allows it to be positioned within the lens ofsunglasses 602, as preferred by the user. For example, where boom 202has an outer gripper material, as described above, boom 202 may beattached to the lower inside surface of the lens. FIG. 6 may alsoillustrate physical embodiments of systems 700, 800 and 1200.

In an embodiment, system 100 determines the user's performanceperiodically, and, as the determined performance changes from one zoneto another, microcontroller 102 generates illumination patterns (e.g.,illumination pattern 408, 508) and controls light display elements 304to provide feedback to the user. The user may use this feedback to guidehis activity towards a desired (preferred or optimal) activity level.Where sensors 170 a-c of system 100 monitor activity of other devices(e.g., vehicles, equipments, and so on.), the feedback may guide theuser's operation of those devices.

To prevent fatigue of the user's eyes, system 100 may dim or extinguishdisplay elements of peripheral vision device 104 (and optionally othercomponents of system 100). For example, system 100 may display metricswhen that metric changes, and later may dim the corresponding displayelements to prevent the user's eyes from becoming fatigued. Optionalaudio output device 120 and optional vibration device 122, if included,may continue to provide performance feedback when display elements ofperipheral vision device 104 are dimmed or extinguished, or devices 120and 122 may be silenced and/or stilled also.

In one embodiment, the range of the currently specified activity metricmay be applied across multiple pages of display elements. A single pageof information is mapped with some or all display elements and presentedat any given time, with pages incrementing or decrementing automaticallyas the user activity crosses the page thresholds. Alternatively, inputfrom the user (e.g., a nod of the head or a tap on the frame of system100 detected by accelerometers within system 100) may transition fromone page to another. In one example of operation, system 100 may beconfigured to turn off the display (or fade the display) when the useris operating within defined target zones, and to activate the displaywhen the user varies from those target zones. See flowchart 1900 of FIG.19 for example. In another example of operation, where a metric displayindicates that the user is within a target zone and the user is notwithin a target zone of a different metric, system 100 may automaticallychange to display the different metric. Optionally, system 100 may alsoprovide audible and/or vibration feedback when changing the displayedmetric.

In one example of operation, system 100 periodically monitorsperformance of a user and provides feedback using peripheral visiondevice 104. A central light display element 304(4) indicates that theuser has reached a target performance level based upon informationreceived from sensors 110 and/or sensors 170 a-c. If the user'sperformance level changes, microcontroller 102 may alter the displayedillumination pattern to indicate the changes in performance to the user.For example, if the user's performance level drops, light displayelement 304(3) may illuminate, and light display element 304(4) mayextinguish. When the user's performance drops further, the light displayelement 304(3) is extinguished and light display element 304(2)illuminates. On the other hand, if the uses performance level exceedsthe target performance level, light display element 304(5) eliminatesand light display element 304(4) is extinguished. In another example ofoperation, a single light display element 304 indicates a target zone isachieved by the user for at least one metric, and additionallyilluminated light display elements 304 indicate variance from thattarget zone, the greater the number of illuminated light displayelements 304, the greater the user's variance from the target zone. Inyet another example of operation, variance from a metric target zone isindicated by the number of illuminated light display elements 304, wherethe greater the user's variance from the target zone, the greater thenumber of elements illuminated. In another operational example, one ormore light display elements 304 are illuminated when the user reaches atarget zone, and are extinguished or dimmed when the user varies fromthat target zone.

The span of the activity metric range, as well as the number of zones,and width of each zone within this range, may be specified or adjustedby the user prior to, or during activity. Optionally, the user mayselect the light display elements 304 and preferred visual modulationcharacteristics for one or more zones 402.

Fixed Vs. Dynamic Zones

In one embodiment, the span and zone characteristics of each availableactivity metric are fixed (e.g., within configuration 160) for theduration of the activity session in accordance with predefined settings.In another embodiment, the span and zone characteristics may vary inaccordance with a preselected activity profile. For example, theactivity profile may be preconfigured (e.g., within configuration 160)by the user using one of a smart phone, a PC, and a tablet computer. Inone example of operation, the user defines the activity profile toinclude an initial warm-up phase at a lower activity level, followed bya higher intensity phase such as during interval training, and finally alower intensity cool-down phase. The user may select from an availableselection of predefined activity profiles, or may define new profiles.For example, the user may define the duration of each activity profile.In one embodiment, zones are automatically adjusted by system 100 whenone or more milestones are reached by the user. In another embodiment,zones may be adjusted by a device external to system 100, such as aremote control, PC, smart phone, and tablet PC. For example, a coach mayuse a remote control device to change a user's zones during a trainingsession. In another embodiment, zones may be automatically changed basedupon a wellness environment, where metrics such as a calorie thresholdare reached. In yet another embodiment, zones are defined during anactivity by the user indicating (e.g., tapping system 100) via userinterface 150 that a current intensity of an activity is within a targetzone. Similarly, the user may define a lowest range of a zone and ahighest range of a zone by indicating using user interface 150.

Activity Metric Display & Selection

In one exemplary configuration, system 100 is connected to a pluralityof sensors 110, 170 a-c, and displays one activity metric at a time.That is, system 100 allocates light display elements 304 to display thesingle activity metric, as opposed to displaying multiple activitymetrics simultaneously.

User interface 150 allows the user to cycle through the availableactivity metrics to select one or more activity metrics for display. Inone embodiment, sensors 110 include an accelerometer utilized by system100 to determine activity metrics that also may be used to sense taps onsystem 100 by the user. In another embodiment, user interface 150includes a microphone 158 that receives voice commands from the user,wherein microcontroller 102 includes voice recognition capability tointerpret the commands to control system 100. In another embodiment, aremote control device is operated by the user to change metricsdisplayed by system 100. For example, the user may have a remote controldevice attached to a handlebar of a vehicle being ridden that allows themetric displayed on system 100 to be changed without removing his or herhands from the handlebars. In another example, a coach, teammate, orofficial has the remote control to select the metric displayed by system100 to the user. In one embodiment, the remote control is an application(app) running on a smart phone, tablet, or other similar device. Theapplication has the ability to receive metrics (e.g., metrics from amachine being used by the user of system 100, environmental metrics, orother metrics not processed by system 100), perform complex algorithms,and act like a coach to change target zone settings or other performancemetrics of system 100 on the fly. The application may be configured tofocus on goal oriented performance and may be for example written by(and/or audio cues may be provided using the voice of) a coach orfitness celebrity.

In response to user input, system 100 may provide visual or audioprompts to the user. For example, peripheral vision device 104 maydisplay a specific sequence indicating selection of a desired activitymetric for display. Alternatively, each activity metric may have aunique visual characteristic, such as color, to identify the activitymetric being displayed.

In one embodiment, light display elements 304 are divided between two ormore activity metrics such that these metrics are displayedsimultaneously. This allocation of light display elements 304 to one ormore activity metrics may be pre-defined and may be defined by the userbefore or during activity. Thus, the user may receive feedback formultiple activity metrics simultaneously without additional interaction.

In an alternative mode of operation, light display elements 304 may besimultaneously shared among one or more activity metrics by utilizingunique visual characteristics for each activity metric. For example, thedetermined heart rate of the user may be displayed in the form of aslow-flashing red light display element in a position relative to aheart rate target zone. At the same time, the speed of the user may bedisplayed as a fast-flashing green light display element within theperipheral vision device at a position relative to a target speed zone.In one embodiment, a single light display element 304 capable ofoutputting light at any one of a plurality of colors is used to providemultiple metrics, where a particular color indicates a particular metricand where an intensity and/or modulation frequency of light output atthat color indicates a value for the metric. In another embodiment,multiple light display elements 304 each capable of outputting light atany one of a plurality of colors allows transition effects to beimplemented by system 100 to indicate a change in displayed metric.Exemplary transition effects include a wave effect from one side ofperipheral vision device 104 to the other, a curtain effect wheretransition from one metric to the next starts in the middle ofperipheral vision device 104 and progresses towards each side, and areverse curtain effect where transition from one metric to the nextstarts at both sides of peripheral vision device 104 and progressestowards the middle.

In one embodiment, light display elements 304 are implemented as seventricolor LEDs that are each assigned to predefined training zonesobtained by subdividing a user-defined minimum-maximum span for eachactivity metric. As the determined performance of the user transitionsinto each zone, the corresponding LED will flash for several secondsbefore fading away to reduce annoyance to the user. The user will mostoften attempt to center his activity in the ‘central’ training zone,which is the 3rd LED from either side. The user can cycle betweenavailable activity metrics by tapping system 100 (or using other inputmethod of user interface 150) to change modes. In addition, system 100allows the user to specify custom activity profiles for each activitymetric such that the zone mapping is modified dynamically during thetraining session. The objective for the user is to maintain hisperformance within the centrally displayed zone through the duration ofthe training session, which will require that he adjusts his effort tomatch the current zone profile.

Audio Output

If audio output device 120 is included within system 100, audible voiceor sound cues may also be provided to the user based upon determinedactivity performance metrics, and to provide operational feedbackprompts to the user. For example, system 100 may be configured toprovide, via audio output device 120, motivational support based upondetected activity performance of the user. Optionally, audio outputdevice 120 may be configured to play custom audio clips from musictracks and provide other tones to indicate measured performance. In oneembodiment, one or more audio clips and music files may be stored withinstorage device 132 and retrieved by microcontroller 102 and played usingaudio output device 120. In another embodiment, audio data is downloadedvia one or both of wireless receiver/transceiver 106 and interface 130.Audio output device 120 may include a voice synthesis module 121 forgenerating voice output. In one example of operation, the user of system100 downloads and installs audio clips of a celebrity that provideprompts and cues for playback during a workout.

Activity performance audio feedback may include audible cues, or averbal description of the user's speed, distance, workout time, or othercurrent, average, and/or historical activity metric. This audio feedbackmay be provided on demand as a result of a user input, or may beprovided at predefined activity points (e.g., when the user reaches anactivity objective or crosses a threshold related to one or moreactivity metrics) or based upon one or more predetermined timeintervals. In one example of operation, system 100 provides a verbalreadout of a user's heart rate determined at predefined 5 minute or 1mile intervals. In another example of operation, system 100 provides averbal notification that a user's average speed for the current sessionhas dropped below a predefined threshold; the user is thereby made awarethat a performance adjustment is required to achieve a desired level. Inanother example of operation, system 100 provides a verbal notificationto a user of remaining time and/or distance in the current session. Inanother example of operation, system 100 provides an audible indicationusing audio output device 120 when the user's performance transitionsbetween zones (e.g., transitions from zone 402(4) to zone 402(3)).Feedback is not limited to the user's performance, but may also includevehicular performance metrics, safety metrics, gaming metrics, warnings,and other useful information.

System 100 may provide operational feedback prompts that include audiblecues during mode transitions, on or off transitions, active sensorchanges, configuration setting adjustment, and low battery status. Audiooutput device 120 may include (wired or wireless) one or more ofspeakers, ear inserts, and headphones, each of which may be mechanicallyintegrated, attached, or detached from peripheral vision device 104. Inone embodiment, audio output device 120 includes a speaker that ispositioned in close proximity to, and directed towards, the user's earto maximize the available volume to the user. Audio output device 120may provide audible cues to the user such as for downloading, charging,uploading, update available, connected, and disconnected.

System Configuration

Configuration 160 of system 100 may be defined using PC 172 (e.g., a MACor Windows based personal computer, laptop, tablet PC, and smart phone)connected to interface 130 via communication path 174. In oneembodiment, interface 130 represents a Bluetooth interface that isincorporated within wireless receiver/transceiver 106, and communicationpath 174 is wireless, thereby allowing system 100 to be configuredwirelessly and without a physical connection. In another embodiment,interface 130 and wireless receiver/transceiver 106 are packagedtogether with microcontroller 102. In yet another embodiment, interface130 represents a wired connection with PC 172 and communication path 174is a wired connection such as a USB cable. System 100 may use otherwired and/or wireless communication devices and modules withoutdeparting from the scope hereof. For example, system 100 may utilize oneor more of WiFi, ANT FS, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE), Zigbee,EM, and other such protocols and interfaces.

In one embodiment, a user connects system 100 to PC 172 forconfiguration and customization. While connected to PC 172,configuration 160 of system 100 may be defined for future use,performance metric data may be downloaded and saved to the device, andfirmware (e.g., software 103 within microcontroller 102) within system100 may be updated. In one example, a graphical user interface (GUI)based application may run on the PC to support configuration and controlof system 100. In one embodiment, system 100 utilizes a GUI running onthe external device for displaying data and interacting with the user.

A user may utilize the PC GUI application to select or design activityprofiles (e.g., workout profiles). For example, the user may generate atime series graph of a desired activity metric profile as a function oftime, and select the associated target zone thresholds for one or moreactivity metrics. The PC GUI application may process the graph togenerate a configuration file that is uploaded to system 100. In oneembodiment, system 100 stores a plurality of predefined profiles (e.g.,within configuration 160) that may be selected by the user (e.g., byinteracting with user interface 150) without need of a PC.

The PC GUI application may also allow sharing, via the Internet forexample, of generated workout profiles. For example, a coach couldprepare a week's worth of workout profiles and send them to each teammember. At the end of the week each team member may upload theirrecorded performance data to a server (e.g., via a web site) such thatteam members performance may be graphically compared (e.g., by the teamcoach). Optionally, generated workout profiles may be shared directlybetween multiple systems 100, for example to allow collaborativeworkouts.

In one embodiment, the PC GUI application provides a map interface onwhich the user draws a desired route, or allows the user to select fromhistorical routes, or to select from routes published by other users. Inone embodiment, the PC GUI displays a map and allows the user to selecta desired path, the coordinates of which form a route profile that theuser wishes to follow during training. The PC GUI may then allow theuser to specify desired performance metrics at various points along theroute. During operation, in addition to providing performance feedbackto the user as described above, system 100 may provide turn-by-turnguidance to the user indicates, either by using peripheral vision device104 or by using an audible prompt. For example, system 100 may promptthe users that a turn in the predefined route is approaching. System 100may also provide other information to the user, such as safetyinformation including approaching hazards, and may also provideinformation such as approaching sustenance points, such as water, food,fuel, and so on. Alternatively, system 100 may provide directionalinformation to allow the user to find these points, and/or avoidhazards.

In another embodiment, system 100 allows the user to record informationduring an activity. For example, on a cycle ride, a user instructssystem 100 to record a hazard at the current location, whereupon system100 determines (e.g., using a GPS sensor, time on journey, or othermetrics) a current location of the user and transmits that informationto the PC GUI application, where it is annotated to a map in the form ofa symbol and/or transcribed text from the users recorded speech.

Automatic Mode Detection

System 100 may automatically detect a mode of use. Detected modes mayinclude stopped, walking, running, and cycling. System 100 may utilizeone or more of sensors 110 and 170 a-c to determine the current mode.For example, microcontroller 102 may process a signal from anaccelerometer to detect a walking gait within the signal, and mayprocess a signal from a GNSS receiver to determine that the user ismoving at a speed of 2 miles per hour. Based upon these two signals,system 100 may therefore determine that the user is walking. In anotherexample, system 100 may determine that the user is cycling if a measuredspeed of the user is between 6 and 30 miles per hour and a cadence iswithin a cycling range. System 100 may utilize input from more than onesensor to determine a current activity of the user. If the determinedmode transitions, system 100 may generate an audio prompt to requestconfirmation of the mode change (e.g., by tapping or other input to userinterface 150) by the user.

Other Features

In one embodiment, system 100 utilizes wireless receiver/transceiver 106(or an additional wireless receiver) to receive voice communication datafor playing through audio output device 120. In another embodiment,system 100 includes a transceiver (e.g., in place of or together withwireless receiver/transceiver 106) that receives voice communicationdata from other systems, and transmits voice communication data receivedvia microphone 158 from the user to other systems, thereby providing twoway wireless voice communication between users of system 100. See forexample FIG. 20 and its associated description. In one example ofoperation of this embodiment, voice input is received via microphone 158and transmitted via wireless receiver/transceiver 106 to an externaldevice where it is interpreted and acted upon, such as to control gearselection in a vehicle and/or operation of lights. In one embodiment,voice commands received via microphone 158 are interpreted bymicrocontroller 102 as input to system 100.

In another similar embodiment, wireless receiver/transceiver 106 ofsystem 100 receives voice communications from a coach station 2002 suchthat a coach may communicate in real time with the user (e.g., toprovide additional feedback and/or tips).

In another embodiment, system 100 includes a transmitter forbroadcasting performance information (or raw sensor data) as a wirelesssignal 2004 to coach station 2002. Coach station 2002 may represent amobile device such as one or more of a smart phone, a laptop computer,and a tablet computer). Coach station 2002 may then displayinstantaneous graphing and provide near-field feedback to allow thecoach to view performance data substantially in real-time.

FIG. 7 shows one exemplary head-mounted system 700 for displayingperformance information generated by a remote intermediary processor770. System 700 is similar to system 100, FIG. 1, and includes amicrocontroller 702, a peripheral vision device 704, and a wirelesstransceiver 706. Microcontroller 702 may include memory (non-volatileand volatile), one or more analog to digital converters, and otherfunctionality, as typically found in microcontroller devices.Microcontroller 702 is shown with software 703, stored within a memoryof microcontroller 702 for example, which contains machine readableinstructions that when executed by microcontroller 702 performfunctionality of system 700. Peripheral vision device 704 is controlledby microcontroller 702 and positioned within a peripheral vision area ofa user of system 700.

System 700 receives performance information wirelessly from remoteintermediary processor 770, which is external to system 700. Optionally,microcontroller 702 also determines performance information from one ormore of sensors 710, 754, and 756, if included. Intermediary processor770 receives sensor data from external sensors 740 (either wirelessly asshown in FIG. 7, or wired) and determines performance of the user basedupon that data. Intermediary processor 770 may also include one or moreinternal sensors 776 for sensing activity of a user and/or a device.Intermediary processor 770 then transmits the determined performance tomicrocontroller 702 via wireless transceiver 706 for display onperipheral vision device 704.

System 700 has a user interface 750 for receiving input from the userthat may include one or more of: an actuator 752, a motion sensor 754, aproximity sensor 756, a capacitive sensor 757, and a microphone 758.Operation of user interface 750 is similar to operation of userinterface 150 of system 100, FIG. 1. Actuator 752 represents an inputdevice (e.g., a push button switch) and/or a slider that allows the userto interact with microcontroller 702. In one embodiment, actuator 752 isused to activate and deactivate system 700. Motion sensors 754 mayinclude one or more accelerometers and/or gyroscopes for detectingmovement of system 700. Proximity sensor 756 detects proximity changesof system 700 relative to other objects (e.g., the user's hand).Capacitive sensor 757 detects changes in capacitance, such as touch ofthe user's finger and motion of that finger along a surface proximate tocapacitive sensor 757. Microphone 758 may be used to receive voicecommands from the user. User interface 750 allows system 700 torecognize user gestures, such as: button pushes (long and/or shortduration); taps—single, double, and triple taps and fingerpresence/touch/motion by the user on system 700; and user movements suchas head tilts, and head nods and/or shakes. Microcontroller 702 may alsointerpret combinations of inputs (e.g., button pushes and taps) from theuser as sensed by user interface 750.

System 700 may also include one or more internal sensors 710 that couplewith microcontroller 702 to sense performance of the user. The internalsensors 710 may include one or more of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, apressure sensor, a GNSS receiver (e.g., GPS), a power sensor, atemperature sensor, a light sensor, and a proximity sensor. Optionally,sensors of user interface 750 and sensors 710 may provide both userinput information and performance information. For example, informationreceived from an accelerometer within sensors 710 may also beinterpreted provide user input information.

System 700 may also include an audio output device 720 coupled withmicrocontroller 702 for generating audio information (e.g., tones andvoice information readout) to a user of system 700. System 700 may alsoinclude a vibration device 721 for providing tactile feedback to theuser.

System 700 may also include a interface 730 coupled with microcontroller702 that enables communication between system 700 and one or more of aPC, a smart phone, a tablet, and other intelligent devices havingwireless capability. In one example of operation, a PC is used toconfigure performance zones and thresholds of system 700 via a USBinterface of interface 730. Interface 730 may represent any knowncommunication means for communicating with an external device. In oneembodiment, interface 730 may be incorporated within wirelesstransceiver 706. In one example of operation, system 700 utilizes one ormore of user interface 750 and sensor 710 to allow a user to configuresystem 700.

External sensors 740 and intermediary processor 770 may represent, aloneor on combination, one or more of: a smart phone, a heart rate monitor;a running speed/distance/cadence sensor; a vehicle engine managementunit; a bike speed/distance/cadence/power sensor; a bike computer; anexercise equipment computer (e.g., treadmill); a (digital) pressuresensor (for height information); a GNSS receiver (e.g., GPS); atemperature sensor; a light sensor; a proximity sensor, and other suchdevices. Optionally, intermediary processor 770 may utilize an interface772 for configuration of a desired performance. For example, interface772 may attach to intermediary processor 770 or may be incorporatedwithin intermediary processor 770. Interface 772 may provide WiFi,Bluetooth, USB, and other wired and wireless communication capabilityfor communicating with a PC, a tablet computer, a smart phone.Optionally, intermediary processor 770 may include a user interface 774for interaction with a user. External sensors 740 may represent othersensors for sensing other activities without departing from the scopehereof Intermediary processor 770 includes software such that amicrocontroller of intermediary processor, executing the software,processes signals from the internal sensors 776 and/or external sensors740 to determine performance of the user or vehicle being ridden ordriven by the user. One or more external sensors 740 may also bedirectly wired thereto (i.e., without requiring a wireless interface).

In one embodiment, where intermediary processor 770 is a smart phone,microcontroller 702 utilizes wireless transceiver 706 for bi-directionalcommunication with intermediary processor 770, and may send raw data,collected from one or more of sensors 710, 754, 756, and/or microphone758 of system 700 to intermediary processor 770 for processing.Microcontroller 702 may then receive processing results fromintermediary processor 770 for optional further processing and displayon peripheral vision device 704.

System 700 may provide the user with performance feedback such as:current, average, max or min speed/pace; current, average, max or minheart rate; distance travelled; total energy expended; % throughworkout; duration; clock time; workout zone transition (or zone numbercue); heart rate zone; timer; lap time; current, average, min or maxpower; and current, average, min or max cadence. In one example, system700 provides an indication of when the user should replenish energyand/or rehydrate based upon total energy expended by the user and/orother sensed conditions of the user.

In one example of operation, microcontroller 702 receives performanceinformation from intermediary processor 770 via wireless transceiver706, sensor data from sensors 710 if included, and from sensors 754 and756 of user interface 750. Software 703 is executed withinmicrocontroller 702 to process this performance information and sensordata, to generate an illumination pattern (e.g., illumination pattern408, 508), and to control peripheral vision device 704 to display theillumination pattern using peripheral vision device 704 such that theuser is informed of the determined performance. Where included, audiooutput device 720 is also controlled by microcontroller 702 (e.g., whenexecuting software 703) to provide audible information to the user.

In one embodiment, intermediary processor 770 and external sensors 740are integrated with a waterproof housing that couples to a swimmer'sbody (e.g., at the neck). Similarly, electronics 701 are enclosed withina waterproof housing and integrated with swimming goggles, such that theuser when wearing system 700 and intermediary processor 770 may receivefeedback on swimming metrics, such as length time, stroke rate, and soon. For example, sensors 710 and 740 may represent one or more ofaccelerometers, gyroscopes and light detectors for sensing swimmingactivity of the user.

In one embodiment, intermediary processor 770 is a smart phone (e.g., aniPhone® or other similar device), a tablet computer (e.g., an iPad® orother similar device), or a media player (e.g., an iPod® or iPod Touch®or other similar device), a bicycle computer, a netbook, or other suchdevice. User interface 750 of system 700 may be used to controlintermediary processor 770, for example to adjust playback of audio fromintermediary processor 770 via audio output device 720.

FIG. 8 shows one exemplary head mounted system 800 for displaying signalinformation within a peripheral vision area of a user. System 800includes a microcontroller 802, a peripheral vision device 804, and awireless transceiver 806. Microcontroller 802 may include memory(non-volatile and volatile), one or more analog to digital converters,and other functionality, as typically found in microcontroller devices.Microcontroller 802 is shown with software 803, stored within a memoryof microcontroller 802 for example, which includes machine readableinstructions that when executed by microcontroller 802 performsfunctionality of system 800.

Peripheral vision device 804 is controlled by microcontroller 802 andpositioned within a peripheral vision area of a user of system 800.System 800 receives performance information from signaling device 870via wireless transceiver 806. Wireless transceiver 806 may have thecapability of one or more of WiFi, Bluetooth, and other wirelessprotocols. Signaling device 870 may represent one or more of a mobilephone, an alarm system, a tablet computer, a PC, a vehicle enginemanagement unit, a control system, and other such similar systems.Signaling device 870 transmits a signal to microcontroller 802 viawireless transceiver 806 to indicate a status (e.g., of a device orsystem being monitored by signaling device 870). Microcontroller 802then generates an illumination pattern based upon the signal andcontrols peripheral vision device 804 to display the illuminationpattern to indicate the status to the user.

System 800 has a user interface 850 for receiving input from the user.User interface 850 may include one or more of: an actuator 852, motionsensors 854, a proximity sensor 856, and a capacitive sensor 857.Actuator 852 represents an input device (e.g., a push button switchand/or a slider) that allows the user to interact with microcontroller802. In one embodiment, actuator 852 is used to activate and deactivatesystem 800. Motion sensor 854 may include one or more accelerometersand/or gyroscopes for detecting movement of system 800. Proximity sensor856 detects proximity changes of system 800 relative to other objects(e.g., the user's hand). Capacitive sensor 857 detects touch and/ormotion of a user's fingertips on a surface proximate sensor 857 as aninput to system 800. Microcontroller 802 may detect gestures by the userusing one or more of motion sensor 854 and capacitive sensor 857. Userinterface 850 allows system 800 to recognize user gestures, such as:button pushes (long and/or short duration); taps—single, double, ortriple taps by the user on system 800; finger touches and slidingmotion; and user movements such as head tilts, and head nods and/orshakes. Microcontroller 802 may also interpret combinations of inputs(e.g., gestures, button pushes and taps) from the user as sensed by userinterface 850.

System 800 may also include one or more internal sensors 810 that couplewith microcontroller 802 to sense performance of the user or otherenvironmental conditions. The internal sensors 810 may represent one ormore of an accelerometer, a GNSS receiver, a gyroscope, a pressuresensor, a power sensor, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, and aproximity sensor. In one example, internal sensor 810 senses temperatureof the user. In another example, sensor 810 senses environmental lightlevels. Optionally, sensors of user interface 850 and internal sensors810 may provide both user input information and performance information.For example, information received from an accelerometer of sensors 810may also be used to detect user input information.

System 800 may also include an audio output device 820 coupled withmicrocontroller 802 for generating audio information (e.g., tones andvoice information readout) to a user of system 800. In one embodiment,audio output device 820 also includes a vibration device for signalingto the user where audio signals may not be heard (e.g., in noisyenvironments).

System 800 may also include an interface 830 coupled withmicrocontroller 802 that enables communication between system 800 and aPC. In one example of operation, a personal computer may be used toconfigure performance zones and thresholds of system 800 via a USBinterface of interface 830. In one embodiment, interface 830 may beincorporated within wireless transceiver 806, wherein system 800communicates wirelessly with one or more of a PC, a tablet computer, asmart phone, and other devices having wireless capability. In anotherexample, system 800 utilizes one or more of user interface 850 andinternal sensor 810 to allow a user to configure system 800.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary perspective view showing system 800 of FIG. 8configured as a frame 902 for a pair of glasses. A plurality of lightdisplay elements 910 are positioned within frames 902 around one or bothlenses to form peripheral vision device 804 such that light displayelements 910 are within a peripheral vision area of one or both eyes ofthe user when the glasses are worn. Although shown with thirteen lightdisplay elements 910 on each half of frame 902, system 800 may have moreof fewer light display elements without departing from the scope hereof.

Light display elements 910 may be positioned to form a linear array 912such that level signals may be displayed (e.g., the number of lightdisplay elements illuminated within array 912 may indicate a level).Each of light display elements 910 may be a single color, bicolor ortricolor, to convey information to the user. The linear array may bepositioned at any point around the user's peripheral vision area, suchas at the bottom or side of frame 902. One or more of light displayelements 910 may operate to project light onto other objects for viewingby the user. For example, light display elements 910 may project lightonto a lens (polarized or non-polarized) that is within the peripheralfield of vision of the user when wearing the glasses integrated withsystem 800. In another example, light display elements 910 project lightonto an intermediate lens or screen which is within the peripheral fieldof vision of the user when wearing the glasses integrated with system800.

A housing 906 formed on ear piece 904 of frames 902 contains electronics801 that includes microcontroller 802, wireless transceiver 806, anduser interface 850, and optionally includes interface 830 and internalsensors 810. Housing 906 may also be positioned at other convenientand/or ergonomic locations on frames 902 without departing from thescope hereof. Housing 906 may also include a battery (not shown) forpowering electronics 801 and peripheral vision device 804. The batterymay also be positioned elsewhere (e.g., within a separate housing on theother ear piece of the glasses) without departing from the scope hereof.In one embodiment, a housing (e.g., housing 906) may be positioned oneach earpiece of frames 902 and electronics 101, 701, 801, and 1201,distributed therebetween.

System 800 may include other sources of energy, such as energyharvesting systems, solar energy collectors, and so on, withoutdeparting from the scope hereof.

In one example of use, signaling device 870 represents a heart ratemonitoring device that is measuring the heart rate of a patient within ahospital, and where system 800, in the form of frames 902, is worn by adoctor performing a procedure on the patient. While maintaining his viewon the procedure being performed, the doctor receives an indication(e.g., periodically, or when one or more predefined thresholds arereached) of the patients heart rate from peripheral vision device 804.The indication may take the form of one or more light display elements910 flashing to indicate that the patient heart rate has exceeded thepredefined threshold, and may utilize array 912 to indicate a rate ofchange in the measured heart rate (e.g., by a running light effect).

In another example of use, signaling device 870 represents a timerassociated with a setting time of cement used by a dentist on apatient's tooth. The dentist has the cement mixed and applies it to thetooth, applying pressure to the tooth (e.g., holding the crown or veneerin place) while the cement sets. Signaling device 870 sends a timingsignal to microcontroller 802 via wireless transceiver 806, andmicrocontroller 802 utilizes peripheral vision device 804 to show acountdown of remaining time (e.g., using array 912). When the timerexpires, signaling device 870 sends a signal to microcontroller 802 viawireless transceiver 806, wherein microcontroller flashes a differentone of light display elements 910 in a green color to indicate that thecement is set.

In another example of use, sensor 810 includes an infrared temperaturesensor (or radiation sensor) that is attached to (or built into) frames902 and directionally aligned with the view of a user wearing frames902. Microcontroller 802 receives and processes a signal from thissensor to determine a temperature of an object being viewed.Microcontroller 802 then compares this temperature to at least onethreshold (e.g., a maximum temperature) and controls peripheral visiondevice 804 to indicate a sensed temperature that exceeds the definedthreshold. For example, this could provide a warning to the userapproaching a hot object. In another example, the array 912 displays anindication of measured temperature, thereby operating as a limitedinfrared vision aid. It will be appreciated that although FIG. 9 showssystem 800 configured as frames 902, systems 100, 700 or 1200 (describedbelow) may likewise be integrated with frames 902.

Frames 902 may also contain other sensors 810 that couple withelectronics 801 to enhance safety of a wearer of system 800. Forexample, sensors 810 may include gas sensors such that system 800provides a warning to the wearer when a certain gas (or lack thereof) isdetected by sensors 810.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of systems100, 700, and 1200 in the form of a headset body 1002 that has an earclip 1004, an ear piece 1006, and a microphone 1008. Ear clip 1004 mayoptionally include an inner-ear clip (not shown) for securing headsetbody 1002 in position. Ear piece 1006 is formed to fit the human ear andincludes audio output device 120, 720, 820, 1220. Microphone 1008 mayrepresent microphone 158, 758, 1208 of user interface 150, 750, 1250,and/or may represent a microphone of sensors 110, 710 and 1210.Electronics 101, 701, and 1201 within headset body 1002 representcomponents of microcontroller 102, 702, 1202, user interface 150, 750,1250, wireless receiver/transceiver 106, wireless transceiver 706, andcellular transceiver 1206. A boom 1012 connected to headset body 1002positions peripheral vision device 104, 704, and 1204 within aperipheral vision area of the user wearing system 100, 700, and 1200.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of systems100, 700, and 1200 in the form of a headset body 1102 that has a clip1104, an ear piece 1106, and a microphone 1108. Clip 1104 attachesheadset body 1102 to an ear piece 1105 of a pair of glasses, forexample. Ear piece 1106 is formed to fit the human ear and includesaudio output device 120, 720, 820, 1220. Microphone 1108 may representmicrophone 158, 758, 1208 of user interface 150, 750, 1250, and/or mayrepresent a microphone of sensors 110, 710 and 1210. Electronics 101,701, and 1201 within headset body 1102 represents components ofmicrocontroller 102, 702, 1202, user interface 150, 750, 1250, wirelessreceiver/transceiver 106, wireless transceiver 706, and cellulartransceiver 1206. A boom 1112 connected to headset body 1102 positionsperipheral vision device 104, 704, and 1204 within a peripheral visionarea of the user wearing system 100, 700, and 1200. Clip 1104 may alsoattach headset body 1102 to other articles word by the user, such as ahelmet, a ball-cap, goggles, and a visor.

FIG. 12 shows one exemplary head-mounted cellular phone system 1200 thatincludes a microcontroller 1202, a peripheral vision device 1204, and acellular transceiver 1206. Microcontroller 1202 may include memory(non-volatile and volatile), one or more analog to digital converters,and other functionality, as typically found in microcontroller devices.Microcontroller 1202 is shown with software 1203, stored within a memoryof microcontroller 1202 for example, which contains machine readableinstructions that when executed by microcontroller 1202 performsfunctionality of system 1200.

Peripheral vision device 1204 is controlled by microcontroller 1202 andpositioned within a peripheral vision area of a user of system 1200 fordisplaying information associated with operation of system 1200. Forexample, microcontroller 1202 may utilize peripheral vision device 1204to display an illumination pattern (e.g., illumination pattern 408, 508)that indicates one or more of incoming calls, incoming text messages,incoming emails, calendar events, signal strength, and battery status.

System 1200 has a user interface 1250 for receiving input from the user.User interface 1250 may include one or more of: an actuator 1252, motionsensors 1254, a proximity sensor 1256, and a capacitive sensor 1257.Actuator 1252 represents an input device (e.g., a push button switch)that allows the user to interact with microcontroller 1202. In oneembodiment, actuator 1252 is used to activate and deactivate system1200. Motion sensors 1254 may include one or more accelerometers and/orgyroscopes for detecting movement of system 1200. Proximity sensor 1256detects proximity changes of system 1200 relative to other objects(e.g., the user's hand). Capacitive sensor 1257 detects touch and/ormotion of a user's fingertips on a surface proximate sensor 1257 as aninput to system 1200. User interface 1250 allows system 1200 torecognize user gestures, such as: button pushes (long and/or shortduration); taps—single, double, or triple taps by the user on system1200; touches and/or finger movements along a surface of system 1200;and movements such as head tilts, and head nods and/or shakes.Microcontroller 1202 may also interpret combinations of inputs (e.g.,button pushes and taps) from the user as sensed by user interface 1250.

In one example of operation, microcontroller 1202 display indication ofan incoming call to cellular transceiver 1206 using peripheral visiondevice 1204. Upon noticing the displayed indication, the user nods toindicate that system 1200 should answer the call, whereuponmicrocontroller 1202 instructs cellular transceiver 1206 to answer theincoming call and allows the user to hear the caller via audio outputdevice 1220 and speak to the caller via a microphone 1258.

System 1200 may also include one or more internal sensors 1210 thatcouple with microcontroller 1202 to sense performance of the user. Theinternal sensors 1210 may include one or more of an accelerometer, agyroscope, a pressure sensor, a power sensor, a temperature sensor, alight sensor, GNSS (GPS), and a proximity sensor. Optionally, sensors ofuser interface 1250 and sensors 1210 may provide one or more of userinput information, environmental information, and performanceinformation. For example, information received from an accelerometerwithin sensors 1210 may also be interpreted provide user inputinformation.

System 1200 may also include a interface 1230 coupled withmicrocontroller 1202 that enables communication between system 1200 anda PC or other device such as a tablet, a smart phone, a media player,and other similar devices. In one example of operation, a PC connectedto interface 1230 is used to configure contact information and otheroperation parameters of system 1200 via a USB interface. Interface 1230may also represent a wireless transceiver (e.g., Bluetooth or BluetoothLow Energy) for communicating with the PC without departing from thescope hereof.

FIG. 13 shows one exemplary head mounted system 1300 for displayingsound indications within a peripheral vision area of a user of system1300. System 1300 includes a microcontroller 1302, a peripheral visiondevice 1304, and may include a wireless transceiver (not shown) similarto transceiver 806. Microcontroller 1302 may include memory(non-volatile and volatile), one or more analog to digital converters,and other functionality, as typically found in microcontroller devices.Microcontroller 1302 is shown with software 1303, stored within a memoryof microcontroller 1302 for example, which has machine readableinstructions that when executed by microcontroller 1302 performsfunctionality of system 1300, as describe below.

Peripheral vision device 1304 is positioned within a peripheral visionarea of a user of system 1300 and controlled by microcontroller 1302 todisplay an illumination pattern that indicates sounds detected bymicrophones 1358. Software 1303 includes one or more algorithms forprocessing data collected by microcontroller 1302 from microphones 1358to identify one or more of: intensity, frequency, spectral content, anddirection of the sound source.

System 1300 has a user interface 1350 for receiving input from the user.User interface 1350 may include one or more of: an actuator 1352, motionsensors 1354, a proximity sensor 1356, and a capacitive sensor 1357.Actuator 1352 represents an input device (e.g., a push button switch)that allows the user to interact with microcontroller 1302. In oneembodiment, actuator 1352 is used to activate and deactivate system1300. Motion sensor 1354 may include one or more accelerometers and/orgyroscopes for detecting movement of system 1300. Proximity sensor 1356detects proximity changes of system 1300 relative to other objects(e.g., the user's hand). Capacitive sensor 1357 detects touch and/ormotion of a user's fingertips on a surface proximate sensor 1357 as aninput to system 1300. User interface 1350 allows system 1300 torecognize user gestures, such as: button pushes (long and/or shortduration); taps—single, double, or triple taps by the user on system1300; touches and/or finger movements along a surface of system 1300;and movements such as head tilts, and head nods and/or shakes.Microcontroller 1302 may also interpret combinations of inputs (e.g.,button pushes and taps) from the user as sensed by user interface 1350.In one embodiment, one or more capacitive sensors 1357 are positionedproximate to light display elements of peripheral vision device 1304such that gestures made by the user (e.g., sliding a finger) along theframe above a lit portion of peripheral vision device 1304 are input ascommands to change one or more settings associated with the displayedmetric.

System 1300 may include one or more sensors 1310 for sensing theenvironmental conditions, such as ambient light, body temperature, airtemperature, and so on. Sensors 1310 are similar to sensors 110 ofsystem 100, FIG. 1, for example.

System 1300 may also include an interface 1330 coupled withmicrocontroller 1302 that enables communication between system 1300 andone or more of a PC, a tablet, a smart phone, and other similar devices.In one example of operation, the PC is used to configure software 1303and thresholds of system 1300 via a USB interface of interface 1330.Interface 1330 may also represent a wireless transceiver (e.g.,Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy) for communicating with the PC.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing system 1300 of FIG. 13 configuredwith frames 1402 of a pair of glasses. A plurality of light displayelements 1410 are positioned within frames 1402 around both lenses toform peripheral vision device 1304 such that light display elements 1410are within a peripheral vision area of the user when the glasses areworn. Although shown with thirteen light display elements 1410 on eachhalf of frames 1402, system 1300 may have more of fewer light displayelements without departing from the scope hereof. Light display elements1410 may be positioned to form linear arrays 1412(L), 1412(R) such thatlevel signals may be displayed (e.g., the number of light displayelements illuminated within array 1412 indicates a level). Each lightdisplay element 1410 may be mono-color, bicolor, tricolor, ormulti-color, such that additional information of a signal may beconveyed to the user. A housing 1406 formed on ear piece 1404 of frames1402 contains electronics 1301 that include microcontroller 1302, userinterface 1350, and optionally interface 1330. Housing 1406 may alsoinclude a battery (not shown) for powering electronics 1301 andperipheral vision device 1304. The battery may also be positionedelsewhere (e.g., within a separate housing on the other ear piece of theglasses) without departing from the scope hereof.

In one example of operation, microcontroller 1302 receives signals frommicrophones 1358(L) and 1358(R) and converts them into digital datastreams using at least one analog to digital converter. These datastreams are then processed by executing software 1303 to identify andqualify sounds within each data stream. In one example, software 1303implements one or more of digital filters, fast Fourier transforms, andother digital signal processing algorithm in conjunction withcorrelation algorithms. Microcontroller 1302 correlates the digital datastream from each microphone 1358 to determine a direction of the soundrelative to the position of the microphone and frames 1402, therebyderiving a direction relative to the user wearing the frames.Microcontroller 1302 then illuminates, flashes, and/or otherwisecontrols one or more light display elements 1410 of peripheral visiondevice 1304 to indicate a type of the sound, the intensity, and thedirection. For example, arrays 1412(L) and 1412(R) may be used toindicate both intensity and direction of the sound, and other lightdisplay elements 1410 may indicate the type of the sound. For example,microcontroller 1302 executing software 1303 may identify one or moresounds from a phone ringing, a knock at the door, a doorbell, a firealarm, a smoke alarm, a car horn, a baby monitor, a baby crying, a malevoice, a female voice, and a child's voice.

System 1300 may also be configured with a wireless transceiver and anintermediary processor, similar to system 700 of FIG. 7, such thatprocessing may be performed remotely and results transferred back tosystem 1300 for display using peripheral vision device 1304.

FIGS. 15A-C show perspective views of systems 100, 700, 800, 1200,and/or 1300 configured as a clip-on addition to an ear piece 1508 of auser's existing glasses 1502 and sunglasses 1552. An attachment device1504 allows a housing 1506 to couple with ear piece 1508 of glasses1502. Attachment device 1504 is for example similar to attachmentmechanism 206 of FIG. 2. A peripheral vision device 1512 couples withhousing 1506 containing electronics 101, 701, 801, 1201, 1302 of systems100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300, respectively. In one embodiment,peripheral vision device 1512 includes at least one lens that coupleswith electronics 101, 701, 801, 1201, and 1301 via at least one fiberoptic connection 1510. For example, peripheral vision device 1512 maybond to glass or use an attachment feature such as suction cups forremovable positioning. System 1500 may include more than one peripheralvision device 1512 without departing from the scope hereof. For example,peripheral vision devices 1512 may be positioned one or more of the top,the bottom, and the sides of a lens of the user's glasses.

Two systems may be worn together and/or integrated into one piece ofheadgear. For example, a first system 100 may be configured on a leftside of a user's glasses, and a second system 100 may be configured on aright side of the user's glasses. The first and second systems thencommunicate and operate as a single, more capable unit. Displayedmetrics and indications may be distributed between light displayelements of both systems. For example, the first system 100 may displaya low heart rate indication on a left-most light display element and thesecond system 100 may display a high heart rate indication on aright-most light display element. The first and second systems may alsodisplay different metrics and when information is uploaded to a PC(e.g., via interface 130), information is not duplicated from bothunits.

As described above, systems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300 may implementa communication protocol that allows two or more units to communicatewith one another as well as to communicate with external sensors 170a-c/740, intermediary processor 770, and signaling device 870. In oneexample, systems 100, 700, 800, 1200 and 1300 include transceivers thatallow communication based upon ANT communication protocols. Otherexamples of communication devices and protocols that may be implementedand/or used with systems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300 include BTLE andother Bluetooth (BT) communication devices and protocols. Systems 100,700, 800, 1200, and 1300 may be configures to use any appropriate typeof communication device and protocol without departing from the scopehereof.

Positioning of peripheral vision devices 104, 704, 804, 1204, and 1304,as described above, may also use other means to enhance reliability andconvenience. For example, boom 202 may include one or more of a suctioncup and an adhesive pad, for attaching boom 202 to a user's goggles orglasses. In another example, boom 202 includes an attachment clip thatallows boom 202 to attach to items (e.g., glasses, goggles, faceprotectors, headgear, and so on.) worn by the user.

Additional Examples of Use

In a retail environment, serving staff each wear systems 800 to receiveinstructions to better service customers. For example, one or more lightdisplay elements of system 800 may be assigned to indicate a locationwhere more servers are required to help customers. In another example, aserver in a restaurant wears system 800 and one or more light displayelements are assigned to indicate that food is ready. In anotherexample, system 800 is worn by a kitchen worker and one or moreindicators are assigned to indicate that more food of a particular type(e.g., hamburger) should be prepared. System 800 may be used to conveyinformation where speaking directly to people is not convenient.

In another example of use, system 100 includes a GPS receiver andmapping information of a golf course, such that system 100 may providedistance information of a current position to a next green when worn bya golfer. In another example, system 700 is linked to a GPS unit in agolf cart to provide distance information as received wirelessly. One ormore user inputs may instruct system 100, 700 as to when to switch tothe next hole and to keep track of strokes taken.

In another example of use, system 800 may be configured to providetiming prompts, such as a time-per-question reminder for a student in anexam. In another example, system 800 provides prompts to a teacher (orother officiator) from members of the class without disturbing othermembers of the class.

In another example, system 800 is worn by sound engineers at a concert,and linear arrays 912 are used to visually display the DB's (since theengineers typically wear noise cancelling headphones). Similarly, forworker of heavy equipment where audible warnings are less effective,system 800 may be worn to provide one or more alarm and/or statusindications.

In a gaming environment, a player wears system 800 in the embodiment offrames 902 to display one or more of kill and hit rates in laser tag.For example, linear array 912 may indicate one or more of: a “health” ofthe player in the game, an amount of ammunition left, and time left inthe game.

In another example, a cyclist wears system 100 to view their currentperformance and to communicate with other cyclists in a peloton. Forexample, when the front rider needs to switch out, he may utilize theuser interface of system 100 to indicate to other riders in the pelotonone or more of: he is about to change out of the lead position, he hasequipment problems, and he is going into attack mode. Through use ofsystem 100, each member of the team is aware of the required actions atthe same time.

In another example, system 800 couples to a cell phone and displaysindication of incoming calls, incoming text messages, and incomingemails. System 800 may thus operate similar to system 1200, but with anexternal cell phone.

In another example of use, system 800 is coupled with a GPS receiver andprovides an indication of a required direction change based upon theuser's location and movement. For example, system 800 may indicate aleft turn, a right turn, straight ahead, and may display compassinformation to the user. In another example, system 800 provides clueswithin a treasure hunt, such as getting closer to and farther from thegoal.

In another example of use, system 800 provides status indications from alaptop, tablet computer (e.g., Apple iPad™) and desktop computer, suchas instant messaging and email notifications, without requiring the userto switch to different displays on the computer.

In another example of use, a driver wears system 800 while driving a carto provide a warning indication (e.g., car malfunction). For example,system 800 may also indicate backup warnings and/or distances, and mayinclude a range finder to display measured distances to the user, forexample to warn if travelling too close to the vehicle in front.

In another example of use, each of a plurality of cyclists wear system100 to display their performance information, and to also receiveindication of acceleration/deceleration of the other riders (i.e.,system 100 acts as a bicycle brake light). That is, within an ecosystemof cycle riders each wearing at least one system 100, certaininformation may be shared between the riders to enhance safety andpromote awareness of intended activities.

In another example of use, system 700 communicates with an iPhone® toreceive performance data from at least one sensor (internal and/orexternal) and display high level data using peripheral vision device804, while sending the data to the iPhone to allow the data to be storedand/or displayed graphically.

In another example of use, within a manufacturing environment, equipmentoperators wear system 800 in the form of a pair of safety glasses, asshown in FIG. 9, to display status information of operated equipment.For example, one or more light display elements may be assigned toindicate that the operator should increase or decrease speed, or that anitem has passed inspection or failed inspection. A plant manager maywalk through a division wearing system 800, and based upon connectivity(e.g., automatically connecting to systems within proximity) may receivean instant display of operation status.

In another example of use, system 100 is included within a helmet of afootball player to indicate selected plays and his performance duringtraining. System 100 may include a GPS receiver and thus indicate whenthe player should turn and cut for a selected or predefined play.

In another example of use, system 100 is built into goggles and/or ahelmet worn by a parachutist and used to indicate when the rip-cordshould be pulled, or may be used to provide an indication of danger.

In another example of use, system 800 is worn by a pilot and is incommunication with aircraft equipment to provide a status display (e.g.,warning lights) and/or other information. In another example, system 800couples with one or more gyroscopes mounted within the aircraft togenerate an artificial horizon, wherein system 800 displays attitudeinformation of the aircraft to the pilot.

In another example of use, external sensors (e.g., one or moreaccelerometers) are attached to a head of a golf club swung by a wearerof system 100. As the user swings the club, microcontroller 102determines a club head speed, which is reported to the user, eithervisually using peripheral vision device 104 and/or audibly via audiooutput device 120. Additional sensors (e.g., sensors 110) may beintegrated into the grips of the club, such that system 100 mayoptionally display the user's grip pressure.

In another example of use, system 100 is configured within swim gogglesto maintain a lap counter and other performance measurements. System 100may include a heart rate monitor sensor (e.g., an ear clip) and one ormore accelerometers and/or gyroscopes that allow microcontroller todetermine a swim direction, and thereby count laps.

In another example, system 700 includes two-way voice communication toother similarly enables systems. For example, cyclists in a peloton eachusing system 700 may communicate verbally over short distances, and mayuse verbal commands to control system 700.

In another example of use, system 100, 700 has one or more sensorspositioned on an arm or a leg of the user, wherein system 100, 700displays an indication of body position relative to a set position asused for working out with weights and other equipment. System 100, 700may then count repetitions of a set of exercises, and even count thenumber of sets. Where system 100, 700 is preprogrammed with theexercises and total number of sets, system 100, 700 may prompt (eithervisually and/or audibly) the user as to which exercise/set is next, andhow many repetitions/sets/exercises are remaining. System 100, 700 mayalso interact with another device (e.g., a cell phone, iPod etc.) todisplay exercises and/or statistics, and receive configurationinformation as to the number of repetitions, target heart rate, trainingintervals, etc. After exercising, system 100, 700 may download data tothe device for display to the user and/or uploading to a web site forstorage and/or comparison with other competitors.

In another embodiment, an automatic wireless cycle brake light systemutilizes accelerometers to detect acceleration and/or other methods ofdetecting changes in motion to control a tail light that varies inintensity and/or color to indicate changes in speed of the cycle. Forexample, when the user coasts, the light may be yellow, whereas when theuser brakes, a high intensity red light is displayed.

In another example of use, a stock broker may configure system 800 toprovide an alert when a stock value (or commodity or market index) dropsbelow, or exceeds, a lower or upper threshold.

In another example of use, an external level sensing device includes atleast one accelerometer sensor (e.g., one of sensors 170 a-c), and sendswireless level information to system 100. A user wears system 100, whichdisplays the level information from the external device, therebyallowing the user to level equipment for example without constantlyreferring to the level sensing device itself.

FIGS. 16A and B show one exemplary head-mounted peripheral visiondisplay system 1600 integrated with a baseball cap 1602. System 1600 mayrepresent one of systems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300 of FIGS. 1, 7, 8,12 and 30, respectively. A peripheral vision device 1604 is positionedto be able to emit light from an underside of a peak 1606 of baseballcap 1602 and a housing 1608 is positioned on a top surface of peak 1606and contains electronics of system 1600. Housing 1608 may be positionedor integrated elsewhere on or within cap 1602 without departing from thescope hereof. Each light display element 1610 of peripheral visiondevice 1604 is electrically coupled with electronics within housing1608. Optionally, one or more audio output devices 1620 are integratedwith baseball cap 1602 to provide audio output from system 1600. Audiooutput devices 1620 may represent audio output devices 120, 720, 820,1220, and 1320, for example. Systems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300 maysimilarly be configured to attach to existing headwear or may beintegrated with headwear. For example, systems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and1300 may be integrated with a helmet, a hat, glasses, headphones,earphones, and other items worn or used on the head. Systems 100, 700,800, 1200, and 1300 may for example be formed with an attachmentmechanism for coupling within or upon one or more of a helmet, a hat,glasses, headphones, earphones, and other items worn or used on thehead.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method 1700 fordisplaying information to a user without distraction. Method 1700 is forexample implemented within one or more of software 103, software 703,software 803, software 1203, and software 1303, of systems 100, 700,800, 1200, and 1300, respectively.

In step 1702, method 1700 receives the information. In one example ofstep 1702, wireless receiver/transceiver 106 receives information fromone or more external sensors or devices and passes the information tomicrocontroller 102. In step 1704, method 1700 determines anillumination pattern for at least one light display element based uponthe information. In one example of step 1704, microcontroller 102determines illumination pattern 408 for light display elements 304 basedupon information received from sensors 170 a-c.

Steps 1706 through 1710 are optional. If included, step 1706 is adecision. If, in step 1706, method 1700 determines that the determinedillumination pattern has changed, method 1700 continues with step 1712;otherwise method 1700 continues with step 1708. If included, step 1708is a decision. If, in step 1708 m method 1700 determines that a timeouthas occurred, method 1700 continues with step 1710; otherwise method1700 terminates. In one example of step 1708, a timer withinmicrocontroller 102, 702, 802, 1202, and 1302, is configured to mature apredefined period after a pattern change in peripheral vision device104, 704, 804, 1204, and 1304, where the timer is restarted whenever thepattern in the peripheral vision device changes. If included, in step1710, method 1700 dims (or extinguishes) the peripheral vision device.In one example of step 1710, peripheral vision device 104, 704, 804,1204, and 1304 is gradually dimmed and then extinguished bymicrocontroller 102, 702, 802, 1202, and 1302.

In step 1712, method 1700 controls the at least one light displayelement to display the illumination pattern. In one example of step1712, microcontroller 102 controls light display elements 304 to displayillumination pattern 408 determined from information received fromwireless receiver/transceiver 106. Where steps 1706 through 1710 areincluded, step 1712 may also restart the timer within microcontroller102, 702, 802, 1202, and 1302.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method 1800 fordetermining an illumination pattern for one metric. Method 1800 mayrepresent at least part of step 1704 of FIG. 17 and is for exampleimplemented within one or more of software 103, software 703, software803, software 1203, and software 1303, of systems 100, 700, 800, 1200,and 1300, respectively.

In step 1802, method 1800 reads a metric display area from aconfiguration. In one example of step 1802, microcontroller 102 reads adisplay area containing display elements 304(1) through 304(7) fromconfiguration 160 for activity metric 406. In step 1804, method 1800reads a display mode from the configuration for the metric. In oneexample of step 1804, microcontroller 102 reads a display modeindicating that activity metric 406 is displayed as a linear array. Instep 1806, method 1800 reads metric minimum and maximum values from theconfiguration. In one example of step 1806, microcontroller 102 reads,for a running metric, a minimum value of 2 miles per hour (mph) and amaximum value of 8 mph. In step 1808, method 1800 reads a metric targetzone from the configuration. In one example of step 1808,microcontroller 102 reads, for the running metric, a target zone of 4-6mph.

In step 1810, method 1800 determines a position of indicator based onthe minimum and maximum values and the current metric value. In oneexample of step 1810, continuing with the above running example wherethe current metric value is 5 mph, microcontroller 102 determines thatlight display element 304(4) is the position for indicating the currentmetric value for activity metric 406 based upon the display area oflight display elements 304(1)-(7), the minimum and maximum values of 2mph and 8 mph, and the current metric value of 5 mph.

In step 1812, method 1800 determines an intensity of the illuminationpattern based upon the target zone and the current metric value. In oneexample of step 1812, microcontroller 102 determines that the currentmetric value is within the target zone of step 1808 and therefore setsillumination pattern 408 to have a bright flashing intensity. In step1814, method 1800 generates an illumination pattern based upon thedisplay area, the display mode, the position, and the intensity. In oneexample of step 1814, microcontroller 102 generates illumination pattern408 to display active metric 406 on peripheral vision device 104.

Ordering of steps within method 1800 may change without departing fromthe scope hereof.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method 1900 fordetermining an illumination pattern for an activity metric whereactivity in a target zone is indicated by no illuminated elements of theperipheral display. Method 1900 may represent at least part of step 1704of FIG. 17 and is for example implemented within one or more of software103, software 703, software 803, software 1203, and software 1303, ofsystems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300, respectively.

Step 1902 is optional. Step 1902 is included where the peripheraldisplay has multiple light display elements 304. In step 1902, method1900 reads metric display position from the configuration. In oneexample of step 1902, microcontroller 102 reads a display areacontaining display elements 304(1) through 304(7) from configuration 160for activity metric 406. In step 1904, method 1900 reads a metric targetzone from the configuration. In one example of step 1904,microcontroller 102 reads a 4-6 mph target zone from configuration 160.In step 1906, method 1900 determines a current metric value. In oneexample of step 1906, microcontroller 102 processes information receivedfrom one or more sensors 110 and/or 154 to determine a current runningspeed of the user as the current metric value.

Step 1908 is a decision. If, in step 1908, method 1900 determines thatthe current metric value is within the target zone, method 1900continues with step 1910; otherwise method 1900 continues with step1912. In step 1910, method 1900 extinguishes the display elements of themetric display position. In one example of step 1910, microcontroller102 controls peripheral vision device 104 to extinguish light displayelements 304(1)-(7) of activity metric 406. Method 1900 then terminates.

In step 1912, method 1900 determines intensity, a mode, and/or aposition of indicators for illumination based upon the current metricvalue, the display position, and the target zone. In one example of step1912, microcontroller 102 determines intensity based upon the size ofthe difference between the current metric value and the target zone. Instep 1914, method 1900 generates an illumination pattern based upon theposition and the intensity. In one example of step 1914, microcontroller102 generates illumination pattern 408 to display active metric 406 onperipheral vision device 104.

Ordering of steps within method 1900 may change without departing fromthe scope hereof.

FIG. 20 shows exemplary communication between head-mounted performancedisplay systems 100(1) and 100(2), and between a coach station 2002 andeach of systems 100(1) and 100(2). Although the example uses system 100,any of systems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300 may be used withoutdeparting from the scope hereof. System 100(1) and system 100(2)communicate with each other and communicate with coach station 2002wirelessly using wireless receiver/transceiver 106. Coach station 2002has a transceiver similar to (or compatible with) wirelessreceiver/transceiver 106 and includes a microphone (e.g., similar tomicrophone 158 of system 100) and an audio output device (e.g., similarto audio output device 120).

In one example of operation, an analog signal 2003 generated bymicrophone 158 is captured by microcontroller 102 (e.g., using an analogto digital converter controlled by software 103) and transferred towireless receiver/transceiver 106 for transmission as wireless signal2004 to system 100(2). Within system 100(2), information received withinwireless signal 2004 is output to the user of system 100(2) using audiooutput device 120 of system 100(2). Similarly, system 100(2) may captureaudio from the user and send that audio within wireless signal 2006 tosystem 100(1), where it is received by wireless receiver/transceiver 106and transferred by microcontroller 102 to audio output device 120 foroutput to the user of system 100(1). Thus, users of systems 100(1) and100(2) may communicate using voice.

In one embodiment, systems 100(1) and 100(2) communicate with oneanother via wireless receiver/transceiver 106 to share route profilesand/or synchronize route profiles. For example, where users meet at tostart a run together, system 100(1) of a first user and system 100(2) ofa second user may synchronize to share a preconfigured route programmedinto system 100(1). In another example, the first and second users maysynchronize target zones (e.g., running speed) where they intend to runtogether.

Similarly, coach station 2002 may send a wireless signal 2008 containingaudio information (e.g., voice) from a user (e.g., coach) of coachstation 2002 which is transferred by microcontroller 102 as data 2009for output by audio output device 120 of system 100(1) to the user ofsystem 100(1).

Coach station 2002 may also receive wireless performance information2010 from system 100(1) as determined by microcontroller 102 from one ormore sensors 110. Thus, coach station 2002 may display real-timeperformance data of the user of system 100(1) and also provide audiofeedback to that user.

In one example of operation, coach station 2002 operates within agroup/social setting (e.g., a training class such as spinning, aerobics,Pilates or other) to instantly change the profiles of each of aplurality of head-mounted peripheral display systems (e.g., systems 100,700, 800, 1200, and 1300). For example, coach station 2002 maytransition a plurality of systems 100, 700, 800, 1200, and 1300 that areassigned to a group, between stages in a workout wherein the desiredmetric is automatically changed for all systems in the group.

Combinations of Features

It should be clear to one skilled in the art that the above-mentionedfeatures, and others, may be combined in embodiments of head-mounteddisplays. The following combinations of features are contemplated:

A. A head-mounted display for displaying information to a user withoutdistraction, including at least one light display element positionedwithin a peripheral vision area of at least one eye of the user. Theinformation is imparted to the user without the need of repositioning orrefocusing the eye. The display also includes a receiver for receivingthe information, and a microcontroller coupled with the receiver and theat least one light display element. The microcontroller processes theinformation to determine an illumination pattern based upon theinformation and for controlling the at least one light display elementto display the illumination pattern.

B. The display denoted above as A, further including a boom forpositioning the at least one light display element within the peripheralvision area.

C. The display denoted above as A or B, with a boom that includes aflexible substrate having position memory to allow the user to positionthe at least one light display element relative to the eye.

D. The display denoted above as A, B or C, further including anattachment feature integrated with the boom for securing the boom to oneof eyewear and headwear of the user.

E. The display denoted above as A, B, C or D, further including amounting clip for physically coupling the boom onto an item worn on ahead of the user.

F. The display denoted above as any of A through E, with a mounting clipthat is configured to physically couple with one or more of: regularglasses, sun glasses, goggles, a face mask, a hat, a strap fastenedaround the head of the user, a visor, a cap, a helmet, and a carrierformed to support the head-mounted performance display and worn by theuser.

G. The display denoted above as any of A through F, with a boom and ahousing coupled with the boom for containing the receiver and themicrocontroller.

H. The display denoted above as any of A through G, further including auser interface for interacting with the user and including an actuatorfor allowing the user to activate and deactivate the head-mounteddisplay.

I. The display denoted above as any of A through H, including a userinterface that includes one or more of an accelerometer for detectingmovement of the head-mounted display, a proximity sensor for detectingproximity of a hand of the user, a capacitive sensor for detecting atouch of a finger of the user, and a microphone for detecting soundsfrom the user.

J. The display denoted above as any of A through I, further including atleast one sensor electrically coupled to the microcontroller for sensingactivity of the user, wherein the microcontroller determines theinformation based at least in part upon the activity.

K. The display denoted above as any of A through J, including at leastone sensor that is one or more of a heart rate monitor, a speed sensor,an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a pressure sensor, and a power sensor.

L. The display denoted above as any of A through J, including at leastone sensor that is a temperature sensor for sensing ambient temperature.

M. The display denoted above as any of A through L, including at leastone light sensor for detecting an ambient light level, wherein themicrocontroller automatically adjust an intensity of the at least onelight display element based upon the ambient light level.

N. The display denoted above as any of A through M, the microcontrollerprocessing a signal from an accelerometer to detect user input in theform of taps to the display or a head shake of the user.

O. The display denoted above as any of A through N, the receiverconfigured to receive the information from one or more of a bikecomputer, an exercise equipment computer, and a motor vehicle computer.

P. The display denoted above as any of A through O, the receiverconfigured to receive the information from an exercise equipmentcomputer, wherein exercise equipment that includes the exerciseequipment computer includes one of a stationary bike, a treadmill, andan elliptical machine.

Q. The display denoted above as any of A through P, further including aGNSS receiver coupled with the microcontroller, the microcontrollerdetermining one or more of speed and distance from the GNSS receiver.

R. The display denoted above as any of A through Q, the receiverincluding a wireless receiver for receiving the information wirelessly.

S. The display denoted above as any of A through R, the at least onelight display element including a plurality of light display elementformed as a linear array of light display elements that areindependently controlled.

T. A method for displaying information to a user without distraction,including the steps of receiving the information within amicrocontroller of a peripheral vision display system, and determining,within the microcontroller, an illumination pattern for at least onelight display element based upon the information. The method furtherincludes controlling the at least one light display element to displaythe illumination pattern wherein the at least one light display elementis positioned within an area of peripheral vision of at least one eye ofthe user such that the information may be imparted to the user withoutthe need to reposition or refocus the eye.

U. The method denoted above as T, the step of receiving includingreceiving data from one or more sensors within the microcontroller, andprocessing the data to generate the information.

V. The method denoted above as T or U, the step of receiving includingreceiving the information from a signaling device.

W. The method denoted above as T, U or V, further including sensing anambient light level and adjusting an intensity of illuminated lightdisplay elements based upon the ambient light level.

X. A headset for displaying information within a peripheral vision areaof a user, including a receiver for receiving a signal from a signalingdevice, and at least one light display element positioned within aperipheral vision area of at least one eye of the user such that theinformation is imparted to the user without the need of repositioning orrefocusing the eye. The headset further includes a microcontrollercoupled with the receiver and the at least one light display element fordetermining an illumination pattern based upon the signal and forcontrolling the at least one light display element to display theillumination pattern.

Y. The headset denoted above as X, further including a boom forpositioning the at least one light display element within the peripheralvision area.

Z. The headset denoted above as X or Y, further including a mountingclip for attaching the headset onto headgear worn by the user.

AA. The headset denoted above as X, Y or Z, further including a motionsensor for detecting motion of the headset, wherein the microcontrollerdetermines user input based upon the motion.

AB. The headset denoted above as X, Y, Z or AA, the microcontrollerselecting one of a plurality of display modes based upon the user input

AC. The headset denoted above as any of X through AB, the receivercomprising a transceiver, wherein the microcontroller sends the userinput to the signaling device via the transceiver.

AD. The headset denoted above as any of X through AC, themicrocontroller interpreting detected motion resulting from the usernodding as an affirmative signal, and interpreting motion resulting froma head shake of the user as a negative signal.

AE. The headset denoted above as any of X through AD, including a motionsensor that is one or more of an accelerometer and a gyroscope, fordetecting motion of the headset,

AF. A system for displaying audio information within a peripheral visionarea of a user, including at least one microphone for detecting sound,at least one light display element positioned within a peripheral visionarea of at least one eye of the user such that the audio information isimparted to the user without the need of repositioning or refocusing theeye, and a microcontroller. The microcontroller is coupled with the atleast one microphone and the at least one light display element, andincludes machine readable instructions that when executed by themicrocontroller perform the steps of processing the sound to generatethe audio information, generating an illumination pattern based upon thesound, and controlling the at least one light display element to displaythe illumination pattern.

AG. The system denoted above as AF, the at least one microphonecomprising at least two microphones for detecting stereo sounds, whereinthe microcontroller processes the stereo sounds to generate at least twoillumination patterns, one for each of the stereo sounds, and controlsat least two light display elements to each display a different one ofthe illumination patterns.

AH. The system denoted above as AF or AG, the at least one microphonecomprising at least two directional microphones, wherein themicrocontroller determines directionality of the sound and generates theillumination pattern to indicate the directionality.

AI. Headwear for displaying information within a peripheral vision areaof a user, including a receiver integrated with the headwear forreceiving a signal that represents the information, at least one lightdisplay element integrated with the headwear and positioned within aperipheral vision area of at least one eye of the user; and amicrocontroller. The microcontroller determines an illumination patternbased upon the signal and for controlling the at least one light displayelement to display the illumination pattern wherein the information isimparted to the user without the need of repositioning or refocusing theeye.

AJ. Headwear denoted above as AI, further including a boom forpositioning the at least one light display element within the peripheralvision area.

AK. Headwear denoted above as AI or AJ wherein the headwear is selectedfrom the group consisting of a helmet, a baseball cap, headphones,sunglasses, reading glasses, prescription glasses, ski goggles, swimminggoggles, and a face mask.

Changes may be made in the above methods and systems without departingfrom the scope hereof. It should thus be noted that the matter containedin the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The followingclaims are intended to cover all generic and specific features describedherein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present method andsystem, which, as a matter of language, might be said to falltherebetween.

What is claimed is:
 1. A diffraction-free, head-mounted display,comprising: a housing with an attachment mechanism configured to attachto spectacles to be worn by a user; a boom coupled with the housing; aplurality of light display elements positioned at a distal end of theboom to direct non-reflected illumination into a peripheral vision areaof at least one eye of the user; and a microcontroller contained withinthe housing and coupled with the plurality of light display elements fordetermining an illumination pattern based upon the information and forcontrolling the plurality of light display elements to display theillumination pattern.
 2. The display of claim 1, the plurality of lightdisplay elements being configured as a single linear array.
 3. Thedisplay of claim 2, each of the plurality of light display elementsbeing configured to emit light at a fixed wavelength based on positionof the light display element within the linear array.
 4. The display ofclaim 1, the plurality of light display elements being configured as twolinear arrays, a first of the linear arrays being positioned directlyabove a second of the linear arrays.
 5. The display of claim 1, each ofthe plurality of light display elements being a bicolor light emittingdiode, the microcontroller controlling one or more of modulation,intensity, color, flashing rate, flashing duty cycle, and fading of eachlight display element.
 6. The display of claim 1, the boom comprising aflexible substrate having position memory to allow the user to positionthe at least one light display element relative to the eye.
 7. Thedisplay of claim 1, further comprising a user interface communicativelycoupled with the microcontroller and having one or more of anaccelerometer for detecting movement of the head-mounted display, aproximity sensor for detecting proximity of a hand of the user to thehead-mounted display, and a capacitive sensor for detecting a touch of afinger of the user to the head-mounted display.
 8. The display of claim1, further comprising a receiver configured to receive the informationfrom an external device selected from the group including: bikecomputer, exercise equipment computer, and motor vehicle computer. 9.The display of claim 8, wherein the receiver comprises a GNSS receiver,and wherein the information comprises one or both of speed and distance.10. The display of claim 1, further comprising a microphone fordetecting sound, wherein the microcontroller determines the illuminationpattern based upon the sound.
 11. The display of claim 1, furthercomprising an infrared temperature sensor communicatively coupled withthe microcontroller that determines the illumination pattern based upona temperature sensed by the infrared temperature sensor.
 12. The displayof claim 1, the position of each light display element corresponding toa zone of performance of the user, the information defining a currentlevel of the user's performance and the microcontroller determining theillumination pattern to indicate the current level of the user'sperformance.
 13. A method for displaying information to a user withoutdistraction, comprising: receiving the information within amicrocontroller attached to eyewear of the user; determining, within themicrocontroller, an illumination pattern for a plurality of lightdisplay elements based upon the information; and controlling theplurality of light display elements to display the illumination pattern;wherein the plurality of light display elements is positioned by aflexible boom to direct non-reflected illumination into a peripheralvision area of at least one eye of the user.
 14. The method of claim 13,the step of receiving comprising: receiving, within the microcontroller,data from one or more sensors; and processing the data to generate theinformation.
 15. The method of claim 13, further comprising sensing anambient light level and adjusting an intensity of illuminated lightdisplay elements based upon the ambient light level.
 16. The method ofclaim 13, further comprising: detecting motion of the headset using amotion sensor; interpreting the motion as user input; and selecting oneof a plurality of display modes based upon the user input.
 17. Themethod of claim 16, wherein the information is received from a signalingdevice, further comprising sending the user input to the signalingdevice.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the motion sensor comprisesone or more of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.
 19. The method of claim13, further comprising: sensing sound from at least one microphonecoupled with the peripheral vision display system; and generating theillumination pattern based upon the sound.
 20. The method of claim 19,the at least one microphone comprising at least two directionalmicrophones, wherein the microcontroller determines directionality ofthe sound and generates the illumination pattern to indicate thedirectionality.